Last time I wrote that of the six false notions about Christianity numbers five and six are the most significant. For the sake of brevity, let's jump in.
Fifthly, Christianity is primarily about relationship (1 John 3:1-3), not religion. This is quite a statement, especially since finding good examples in the USA are difficult. I say the USA because the understanding of the faith in other countries is far more organic and authentic (unfortunately). In our country, there are far too many who put on Christianity like the three piece suit they wear once a week on Sundays. No, look at the example of Jesus in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) and you will find that the faith he called us too is not squeaky clean, all dressed up, prim and proper. The ministry of Christ was characterized by dusty walks, spitting on dirt to make clay for healing a blind man, touching lepers (those with a flesh eating disease), writing in the sand, and fraternizing with outcasts, prostitutes, and the lowest dregs of society.
There is a radical transformation in a true follower of Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17). He leads us far beyond the reaches of our comfort zones. He calls us out of the boat to walk on the water (Matthew 14:22ff), and lifts us up when we start to sink. Again, many Christians have no idea what I'm referring too, b/c they are paralyzed by fear of the unknown. If you are bored with a life void of meaning, then step out in faith. Your life will change forever (John 10:10).
Sixthly, there are not multiple ways for a person to get to heaven (Acts 4:12). Many people today believe that God cannot be love if he does not save the majority of people. Now, because they want to believe in a God that lets most people into heaven they must say that people of other “faiths” are just as right in what they believe. All that matters in their minds is that people are sincere. This is the way many people think today. But, is it true? The logical answer is “no” and I will try to explain briefly. The Bible says that God sent his Son to earth to die to make a way—a bridge—to reconnect people with God (John 3:16). If this is so, why would God do such a thing if there was another way? That would be a very painful waste. Jesus tells us plainly, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6).” Those are perhaps the boldest words ever spoken by anyone. And, as far as love for people is concerned, God showed us the greatest act of love imaginable when he sent us Jesus.NEXT TIME: What Jesus said a Christian is.
